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Suicide Prevention and Domestic Abuse: A Critical Link That Professionals Must Address

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, it’s vital to address a stark reality: nearly half of all suicide attempts in the UK are linked to domestic abuse. A recent Lancet study in 2022 revealed a staggering statistic: 49.7% of all suicide attempts in the UK are linked to domestic abuse. This statistic underscores the urgent need for all professionals working with victims/survivors, and those who use abusive behaviours, to develop the skills and confidence necessary to support them effectively and prevent further tragedies.

The Overlap Between Domestic Abuse and Suicide

Domestic abuse doesn’t just leave physical scars. The emotional and psychological damage – often including fear, isolation, shame, and a profound sense of hopelessness – can push many individuals to the brink of despair. For those who are enduring abuse, the threat to their safety can feel inescapable, and for some, suicidal thoughts may seem like the only way out.

We need to recognise that, because of the complex trauma they carry, they need holistic, compassionate care that addresses their mental health problems, their use of drugs or alcohol as coping mechanisms, and their isolation, entrapment, and sense of hopelessness. All of these issues put them at an increased risk of suicidal ideation.

It’s not just survivors who are at risk. Research shows that individuals who use abusive behaviours are also at heightened risk for suicide. These individuals often experience significant mental health challenges, including depression, substance abuse, and untreated trauma, which can drive both their abusive behaviour and their suicidality.

Why Professional Curiosity is Crucial

Given this deep connection between domestic abuse and suicide, it’s critical that professionals – whether in domestic abuse services, mental health, social services, criminal justice, or voluntary sectors – apply professional curiosity when working with individuals who may be at risk. Professional curiosity means asking questions, going beyond surface-level interactions, and actively looking for and asking about signs of domestic abuse, suicidal thoughts, or both.

Here are a few examples of how professionals can apply their curiosity:

  • Ask questions in a safe, empathetic environment: For survivors, it’s important to gently inquire about their home life (“what is a typical day like?”), emotional wellbeing, and any feelings of hopelessness, entrapment, or self-hatred they may have.
  • Be aware of the signs of suicidal ideation: Look for behavioural changes such as withdrawal, a lack of engagement in daily activities, or verbal hints that life is becoming unbearable.
  • Don’t overlook those who use abusive behaviours: While it may be uncomfortable, professionals should inquire about power, control, and relationship dynamics to identify people who abuse and also ask about their mental health and emotional wellbeing, as they too may be struggling with suicidal ideation and/or using suicidal threats as a dangerous form of coercive control (which might indicate an increased risk of homicide).

At Grassroots Suicide Prevention, we’ve developed a comprehensive training programme on “suicide prevention in the context of domestic abuse”, which has been run in several areas across the country. Participants report significantly improved ability to recognise the warning signs of both domestic abuse and suicidality, and to offer effective support that addresses co-occurring issues like poor mental health and substance use, both of which make staying safe challenging, with 100% recommending the course to others.

The Importance of Collaborative Suicide Safety Planning

When working with survivors who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, professionals must develop the skills to collaboratively draw up suicide safety plans that take into account the individual’s complex needs. A collaborative approach honours their experiences and strengths, builds trust, and empowers survivors by involving them in the process of ensuring their safety, rather than making them feel as though decisions are being made for them.

Our Stay Alive app is a life-saving resource that can support both individuals in crisis and those supporting them. The app includes safety planning, tips for staying grounded during moments of crisis, and emergency contacts—tools that can help those experiencing domestic abuse, as well as those at risk of suicide.

If safe and appropriate, professionals can introduce the app to those they are supporting. The app helps individuals create a personal safety plan that prioritises their emotional and physical wellbeing. When relevant, it also integrates substance use management into the plan. This app can empower people to take control of their safety and mental health in an accessible, compassionate way.

The Role of Specialist Professional Training in Suicide Prevention

The link between domestic abuse and suicide is undeniable, and addressing it requires concerted effort from all professionals.

Professionals working with victims/survivors or perpetrators of domestic abuse need to be equipped to handle the complex needs that arise from the intersection of trauma, mental health struggles, parenting in this context, and substance misuse when it is present. A one-size-fits-all approach is inadequate for the complexity of the challenges survivors face. Instead, it requires thoughtful, nuanced intervention, starting with empathy and extending into collaborative action.

Our training programmes provide the workforce with the necessary skills to offer this kind of support. At Grassroots Suicide Prevention, we have designed comprehensive courses that equip professionals with the tools to identify and support individuals with suicidality experiencing domestic abuse, whether they are victims/survivors or people who use abusive behaviours. 100% of participants recommend it to others.

This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let’s commit to improving our skills, developing our confidence, and applying professional curiosity in every interaction. By doing so, we can identify those at risk earlier, intervene before it’s too late, and support individuals in reclaiming their lives.

To develop your skills in suicide prevention in the context of domestic abuse, contact the training team. And if you haven’t already done so, download our Stay Alive app.

Together, we will break the cycle of abuse and save lives. Together, we can make a difference. 

Agnes Munday (she, her) BA Hons, PGCE, UKPHR, CMgr FCMI
Head of Training

Did you know 1 in 5 people will have suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives?

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